Most people looking to escape the summer heat in the UK will consider investing in fans or in expensive air conditioning systems. Unfortunately, if you own a Georgian or Victorian home, you may be stuck with the heat. Fortunately, you may also be packing one of the best naturally occurring cooling systems.
Believe it or not, your sash windows are a built-in cooling system.
Cooling Victorian homes with sash windows
There was a time before electrical air conditioning systems and modern builders had a much better understanding of cooling systems.
Modern windows have only a single panel that opens horizontally or vertically, sash windows allow you to open the top and the bottom panels.
This has a natural cooling effect.
Through the bottom panel the air outside which is relatively cooler can come in.
The air that was previously inside the room and is now heated can escape through the top panel.
This allows a natural flow of air in the room and a constant air circulation.
No electricity is required for the process to work and it has been naturally cooling homes for several centuries.
Why is sash window cooling so effective?
When sash windows are built into the room, they allow for the natural circulation of air. The air that is heated is also the air that rises. Once the cooler air has entered through the bottom panel, the heated air is allowed to escape through the top panel. For a stronger flow of air, you can open sash windows located on opposite sides of your home.
Whenever possible, open windows on opposite sides of your home.
Air out your home in the cooler early morning and late evening hours.
During the day, when the sun is at its hottest, keep your curtains and blinds closed.
You may be surprised at how much cooler your home can be without you having to turn on any appliances.
Is this system a suitable replacement for modern air conditioning?
This system cannot be a complete substitute for modern air conditioning, especially during the hottest summer days.
This system, however, can contribute to a cooler home, better airflow, and reduced stuffiness. It can also help reduce the number of electric fans or air conditioners used, ultimately reducing your energy expenses.
What if you can’t open your sash windows?
Many of the original sash windows in period homes are unfortunately painted shut, broken or challenging to open.
If you can’t operate your sash windows, you unfortunately don’t have one of the period benefits of operating sash windows.
NJS Sash Windows specialist in the functional restoration of period sash windows. We fix sash windows that have been painted shut, replace broken sash cords and restore the timber of sash windows along with sash weights. We also draught-proof windows.
If your Georgian or Victorian sash windows have a similar issue, we will help you restore them.
